Polymastia: causes, symptoms and treatment of extra breast tissue formation

What is polymastia and how does it develop?

Polymastia is the formation of additional breast tissue. This occurs particularly frequently in the area of the armpits and pectoral muscles, but can also occur along the entire milk line. The excess breast tissue is often without a nipple or areola.

This malformation is due to incomplete regression of the milk line. The mammary ridge is a natural thickening of the skin that runs on both sides from the armpits down to the genital region. It develops during embryonic development and normally regresses completely during the course of development, leaving only the regular breast tissue. If this process is disrupted, as is the case with polymastia, excess mammary glands or nipples may develop along this original line.

How is additional breast tissue noticeable?

Polymastia is not always recognizable at first glance. It can be noticed by the following symptoms:

• Swelling or protrusion: A swelling may become visible, particularly in the armpit or along the milk line.
• Cyclical pain: As the tissue reacts to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, this can lead to feelings of tension and pain.
• Restricted movement: If there is a large amount of tissue in the armpit region, this can lead to painful restrictions in arm mobility.
• Aesthetic and psychological burden: Visible breast tissue can be an aesthetic problem and therefore also have a negative impact on self-confidence.

In some cases, the additional breast tissue remains unnoticed until swelling occurs due to hormonal changes, for example during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Advantages of surgical treatment of polymastia

Removing excess breast tissue has aesthetic benefits, but can also eliminate physical discomfort. You will feel more comfortable and regain your quality of life. The benefits of the operation include

• Pain relief: Cyclical or even permanent pain can be eliminated by removing the tissue.
• Freedom of movement: The operation can restore unrestricted arm mobility, especially in the case of large amounts of tissue in the armpit.
• Aesthetic improvement: By removing the protrusions or swellings, you can regain your self-confidence.
• Long-term results: Once the excess tissue has been removed, it no longer recedes.

Polymastia surgery: How is additional breast tissue removed?

Polymastia, and therefore its symptoms, can be corrected by breast correction. Polymastia surgery usually takes around 60 minutes. After a detailed consultation, careful planning and marking of the affected area, the excess tissue is removed through small incisions. A very scar-saving technique is used for this.

In the case of very large excess breasts, removal of the skin mantle should be considered. This procedure can result in a scar of several centimeters. After the procedure, the patient is closely monitored and receives detailed information on the correct aftercare to promote healing, keep scarring as inconspicuous as possible and avoid complications.

Preparation and aftercare: What should you pay attention to?

Thorough preparation is crucial for successful treatment. This includes abstaining from alcohol and nicotine and adjusting certain medications in consultation with your doctor. These include, for example, hormone preparations and blood-thinning medication.

After the procedure, you should avoid sporting activities, physical exertion and saunas for at least four weeks. Regular check-ups can ensure optimal healing progress. From the third postoperative week, massages can support scar care. We will explain this to you in detail in advance.

When does it make sense to remove a polymastia?

The decision to remove excess breast tissue depends on various factors. Removal may be medically necessary if there is pain or restricted movement. Cosmetic reasons can also play a role.

Surgery is particularly advisable before a planned pregnancy. This is because hormonal changes can cause the additional breast tissue to enlarge further, which can impair the skin’s elasticity.

Individual consultation in our practice in Saarbrücken

Polymastia can be not only physically but also psychologically stressful. By removing the excess mammary gland tissue, the symptoms can usually be completely resolved, which ultimately leads to a significant improvement in quality of life.

If you suffer from the symptoms of polymastia or are unhappy with your appearance, we will be happy to assist you. Arrange your personal consultation to find out about the breast correction options at CenterPlast. We will advise you sensitively and individually to find the best solution for you and help you feel more comfortable.